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"On Their Shoulders We Stand" Award

Each year, we celebrate and honor those who have made significant contributions to supporting and uplifting gender equity, whether through mentorship programs, advocacy initiatives, leadership roles, or other impactful activities that promote gender awareness, inclusivity, and diversity. This award celebrates the dedication and commitment of people in our community who are champions of gender equity, empowerment, and leadership.

The Women’s and Gender Studies Program (WGSP) is thrilled to invite nominations for the prestigious "On Their Shoulders We Stand" Award, which celebrates outstanding contributions by faculty, staff, or administrators who have shown dedication to the Women and Gender Studies program and students in their academic and leadership journeys. Nominated individuals should demonstrate exceptional leadership, mentorship, and advocacy for gender equity and empowerment within the college community. Your nomination plays a vital role in recognizing these efforts and inspiring future generations. 

Submission Guidelines

To nominate yourself or a deserving colleague for this esteemed award, please prepare and submit the following materials to wgsp@montgomerycollege.edu: 

  • Nomination Letter: A compelling letter outlining the nominee's contributions and impact in empowering students and advocating for gender equity (maximum 500 words).
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: Highlighting relevant experiences, achievements, and contributions related to supporting students and gender equity (maximum 2 pages).
  • Supporting Documentation: Optional but encouraged. This may include testimonials from students, colleagues, or other supporting materials that demonstrate the nominee's influence and impact. 

Submission Deadline

Please submit all nomination materials by Dec. 18th, 2026. 

Selection Process

A selection committee composed of Women and Gender Studies Program representatives will review all nominations. They will evaluate each nominee based on the details above.

Awardee must be available to present a speech at the annual WGSP Scholarship Ceremony to be held on March 31st, 2027.


Award Past Honorees
On Their Shoulders We Stand Award Honorees (in alphabetical order)
  • Judy Ackerman
  • Sharon Anthony
  • Joanne Bagshaw
  • Roberta Buckberg (2019)
  • Genevieve Carminati (2023)
  • Angela Dawson (2022)
  • Donald Day
  • Sara Ducey
  • Sharon Fechter (2024)
  • Myrna Goldenberg
  • Gustavus Griffin
  • Lucinda Grinnell
  • Linda Hankey
  • Tony Hawkins
  • Loraine Hutchins (2026, posthumous)
  • Rita Kranidis
  • Margaret Latimer
  • Tulin Levitas
  • DJ McCollough
  • Kim McGettigan
  • Jacki Moffi
  • Joan Naake
  • Charlene Nunley
  • Nancy Nyland
  • Debbie Reis
  • Kristen Roe (2026)
  • Auksuole Rubavichute (2025)
  • Om Rusten
  • Rose L. Sachs 
  • Esther Schwartz-McKinzie
  • Mary Kay Shartle-Galotto
  • Karla Silvestri
  • Deborah Stearns
  • Yvonne Stephens
  • Deborah Taylor
  • Carolyn Terry
  • Bess Vincent
  • Ruthann Wilbraham